Things To Know On Your First Day Of Studying Abroad: Important Pointers

This article will provide you with detailed information about Things to Know on your First day of Studying Abroad. We are covering Important pointers related to the First Day of Studying Abroad.

Studying abroad is one of the most eye-opening, mind-bending, life-changing, experiences a student can have. But even though it can be a hugely positive experience, surviving your first day abroad isn’t the easiest thing to do.

There may be language barriers, money issues, and differences in teaching styles that might make it harder to settle in.

Keep on reading this article, To know more about important pointers and much more related to the First day of Studying Abroad.

First Day of Studying Abroad: Important Pointers

• Firstly, make sure you’ve already taken a long good look at the campus so you know exactly where to go and you won’t end up 20 minutes late to class because you were afraid to ask that one stranger for directions.

• Punctuality is important for any university professor so make sure you’re in class at least 10 minutes early; this also saves you from quite a bit of embarrassment.

• The third point is to always carry a pen and paper. Some teachers won’t hesitate to go off the first day itself so it's better to be two steps ahead and jot down notes in case you forget.

• University demands you to be independent so don’t expect things to be handfed to you. You’ll have to engage in a lot of self-learning.

• At University, naturally, there are a huge number of students meaning there will have to be some amount of socializing required to get through the day.

• Don’t be afraid to join clubs and societies, this is where you get the chance to get to know people.

• Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone because that’s what university is all about!

Important Note: Overall, everyone is going through the same thing as you so be yourself. A small suggestion is to also bring something to keep you entertained, be it your earphones or a book. Studying abroad is never easy but eventually, it does get easier.

What to do on your first day abroad?

So you just arrived in a foreign country and you wonder how to get started with your life. Your first steps abroad matter a lot, so watch your steps.

• A local buddy team representative or your host probably meets you at the airport or bus/train station to help you to get to your accommodation. There can always be complications (late hours, traffic jam, buddy/host got sick), so if no one can meet you, you have to be equipped with info to find your way to your new home.

• Make the first call. Send a text or make a call at home when you got to your place.

• Go and check out your new home and the neighborhood. You should do your first walkthrough either with your host, with fellow students, or alone (depending on where you live and who is there).

• Your number one goal is to see if there is any damage in the flat or house. If you see anything that seems broken (especially in your room), you should ask politely 'what happened there?' – that way you can avoid future misunderstandings. The kitchen and bathroom are usually the most sensitive areas but don't forget to check your bed too.

• Put your luggage in your room, but don't be in a rush to unpack it, there are far more important things to do on your first day abroad.

• You may see some facilities that are unknown to you or there might be specific rules when using certain kitchen appliances, or there is a trick to flush the toilet. There is an amazing technique to get information: ask questions. Even if it feels silly at the moment, ask your questions in the beginning.

• Get to know your host, roommates, flatmates, and neighbors. Go over, knock on their doors and introduce yourself, even if you know two phrases in a given language and have to use sign language. Try and make plans for the day together.

• Probably you joined an online group where you are already engaged in a conversation with fellow international students or you have a local buddy who helps you. If you did not do any networking in advance, you can still meet people instantly, for example, you have your host, roommates, or flatmates. Ask them if they want to explore the city together with you.

• Try some local dishes and observe the street signs, types of trees, cars, people, dresses, and architecture. 

• Arrange a meeting with some local or international students and make a campus tour. Check out some classrooms, and audience rooms, and take a walk in the garden if they have one. Go and explore the neighboring streets and shops.

Life lessons you’ll learn in your first study abroad semester

Here are things you’ll learn during your first study abroad semester.

Things will go wrong

That’s just a fact of life. But you’ll soon learn how to overcome them! Whether it’s getting on the wrong bus, waking up late for a seminar, or losing your phone, you would have to be superhuman to survive your first study abroad semester without anything going wrong.

It can be frustrating if something doesn’t go to plan but this is all part of the study abroad experience, allowing you to become a self-sufficient problem solver!

Working out a budget in another currency is hard

Studying abroad comes with many joys, lessons, challenges, memories, and obstacles that will undoubtedly make you a better person. The biggest challenge students encountered with is budgeting

Budgeting is hard enough when you arrive in a new place and want to make the most of everything it has to offer, but trying to do it in another currency presents a whole new element to consider.

You’ll gain a new experience of staying away from your home country

Your first semester abroad may represent the first time you’ve lived away from your home country, allowing you to experience something entirely new and different from your culture. Interesting flavors, activities, and experiences are likely to come your way during your adventure.

The new environment is one of the best things about studying overseas and it’s likely to be one of the most memorable parts of your educational adventure.

You’ll miss your friends, but you’ll make new ones

The people you meet won’t know your whole life story, they won’t immediately know your unique quirks or pet hates.

All of this can really make you miss your friends from home – and while your childhood friends are irreplaceable, there’s a unique joy to be found in forming new friendships with the people you meet in your first study abroad semester.

Tips for students studying abroad for the first time

As you embark on your study abroad adventure for the first time, these helpful hints can make sure that you make the most of your time

• Don’t miss a chance to make new friends.

• Learn how to do things independently.

• Be responsible

• Study hard

• Stay in shape

• Learn the language

• Avoid overspending

Conclusion

You have limited time to make the most of your study abroad experience, but you can succeed by being consciously active abroad from the first moment. The first days of studying abroad will set the tone for the start of your experience. 

So, In this article, we have tried to cover everything related to the First day of Studying Abroad and much more. We hope you like this article! If you need any assistance, feel free to reach out to Alpha Edu Abroad Experts for the advice! 

Ready to make your child's study abroad dreams a reality? Learn how to effectively manage funds for their overseas education with our expert tips and strategies. Start planning today and give your child the opportunity of a lifetime.

An IIT Delhi IIM Ahmedabad alumni initiative

Alpha Education Abroad is an initiative by IIT Delhi and IIM Ahmedabad alumni. The firm helps students get admitted to top universities overseas in the US, UK, Australia, Canada, Germany, and many other countries. It allows students to apply for graduation as well as post-graduation courses abroad. It also helps students get admitted to top 1 year MBA programs such as ISB and IIM Ahmedabad in India.